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3-Phase Power Formula:
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Three-phase power is a common method of alternating current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It's more efficient than single-phase power for delivering large amounts of electrical energy to motors and other heavy loads.
The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates real power in a balanced 3-phase system, accounting for the phase difference between voltage and current through the power factor.
Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for sizing electrical equipment, determining energy consumption, calculating efficiency, and ensuring proper circuit protection.
Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (between 0 and 1). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, 0 ≤ PF ≤ 1).
Q1: What's the difference between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltage?
A: In a 3-phase system, line-to-line voltage is between any two phases, while line-to-neutral is between any phase and neutral. For a balanced system, line-to-line is √3 times line-to-neutral.
Q2: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power (0 to 1). It accounts for phase difference between voltage and current caused by inductive or capacitive loads.
Q3: Can this formula be used for unbalanced systems?
A: No, this formula assumes a balanced 3-phase system. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.
Q4: How does 3-phase power compare to single-phase?
A: 3-phase power provides more consistent power delivery and is more efficient for large loads, while single-phase is simpler and used for smaller residential applications.
Q5: What are typical power factor values?
A: Power factors range from 0 to 1. Motors typically have 0.8-0.9 PF, incandescent lights have ~1 PF, and heavily inductive loads may have lower PF.